31 Christmas Vacations for Families With Actual Time Together in 2025
Everyone celebrates the holidays differently and for some, the end of December means Christmas vacations for families. Some escape the soft sand beaches in favor of fluffy white snow, while others leave the bitter cold to find warm sun and palm trees. Whether it’s tradition or you’re trying something new, there are tons of incredible Christmas vacations for families that will put you in the holiday spirit one way or another.
According to AAA’s latest year-end holiday travel forecast, more families are choosing destination-based celebrations each year, swapping packed schedules for a chance to slow down and actually enjoy time together. And keep in mind it’s helpful to plan ahead so you can secure good flights and hopefully fair prices.
So, whether you choose to wake up somewhere magical on Christmas morning or use the winter break as a chance to explore someplace new, Christmas vacations for families offer a rare moment where everyone is together without the usual rush of school, work and routines. It’s never too early to dream up next year’s trip, especially if it means sipping Christmas cocktails someplace special while you wait for Santa.
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- Best Christmas Vacations for Families
- Luxury Christmas Vacations for Families
- Affordable Christmas Vacations for Families
- Unique Christmas Vacations for Families
Best Christmas Vacations for Families
Not every family wants the same kind of Christmas. Some chase snow, some chase sun and some just want space where no one is rushing out the door.
1. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe gives families one of those winter Christmas vacations for families that everyone will always be trying to recreate. Sure, the skiing is great, but the real draw is how many ways you can enjoy the cold without being stuck on a mountain all day.
Think ice skating, sledding hills, snowshoe trails and small villages that feel festive without being overbuilt. The 65-foot Christmas tree on the South Shore is worth the trip on its own, especially at dusk when everything starts to glow.
2. Devil’s Thumb Ranch, Colorado
If you’re looking for one of those quintessential Christmas vacations for families, head out to the Devil’s Thumb Ranch. You’re all but guaranteed a white, snowy Christmas along with horse-drawn sleigh rides, cross-country skiing, fat tire biking and scenic tours of the beautiful property.
Plus, there’s a massive spa on-site that overlooks the snow to help you relax and enjoy your trip even more.
3. Walt Disney World, Florida
There’s no bad time to visit Disney World, but something about the holidays here makes it a little extra magical. The parks go all-in on decorations with themed parades, special after-hours events and seasonal fireworks.
For families with mixed ages, it’s one of the few destinations where everyone gets something they want. Surrounded by holiday cheer, world-class dining, plenty of rides and other experiences, plus your kids’ favorite characters strolling around the park.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen doesn’t try to be flashy at Christmas — it leans into its quiet, warm, hygge side. While the skies may be gray and snow may fall, you’ll find plenty of ways to warm up and feel cozy.
Tivoli Gardens turns into a storybook village with rides, one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and lights that always leave lasting Christmas vacation memories. Families also love how walkable the city is, even in the cold. There’s always a café to duck into, always candles in the windows, always something baking somewhere.
5. Scottsdale, Arizona
Who says Christmas can’t involve a round or two of golf and some time at the spa? If that’s your idea of a good time, then you’ll most likely enjoy some relaxing Christmas vacations for families in Scottsdale.
There are more than 50 spas and 200 golf courses and a month-long festival in Old Town that will put you in the Christmas spirit in no time. Even just a day trip to the spa sounds like the perfect Christmas gift for mom.
6. Stowe, Vermont
If your family wants a Christmas “that looks like the movies,” Stowe is the place. Take on East Coast skiing or sled racing before strolling down cheery streets lined with Christmas lights and hot cocoa vendors.
Need another reason? There are also other Christmas activities, like ice skating or a charming horse-drawn sleigh ride, that make this one of the most memorable Christmas vacations for families.
7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Though Jackson Hole is primarily known for incredible hiking and skiing, there’s much more to explore here at Christmas time. Even some pretty big-time celebs call Jackson Hole home, at least sometimes, and after a day or two of soaking up the natural beauty and wonder, you’ll understand why. There are plenty of traditional holiday activities like concerts, light shows and even Christmas karaoke.
Luxury Christmas Vacations for Families
Luxury doesn’t have to mean formal or fussy. For many families, it just means having everything taken care of so you have more energy for the moments that matter. These destinations give you comfort, beauty and a break from the holiday logistics.
8. Singapore
Singapore is an incredible destination at any time of year, but a trip during December makes a wonderful luxury Christmas vacation for families. You won’t find snow, but you will find incredible light shows all over the city.
Orchard Road turns into a mile-long light installation, Gardens by the Bay does immersive walk-through displays and Sentosa has family-friendly shows all December. It’s clean, safe and unbelievably efficient — ideal for families who want zero stress and maximum spectacle.
9. Frankfurt, Germany
Take a trip across the pond for a luxury Christmas vacation for families that will be full of holiday cheer. Frankfurt’s Christmas markets are a gift in themselves with their handmade toys, wooden stalls, spiced wine, live choirs and old-world architecture that glows at night.
Families can explore easily on foot or by tram, and nearby towns like Mainz or Wiesbaden make great day trips. Kids love the carousel and storytelling booths; adults love the bakeries and warm pretzels.
10. Cancun, Mexico
Cold and snow not your thing? With a quick flight to Cancun, you can enjoy a luxurious Christmas vacation for families with warmer temperatures. Most resorts don their Santa hats all month long and many also feature local fairs each week, where the locals bring their crafts and goodies to share with you.
Most resorts offer or require an all-inclusive package, so you don’t need to leave the hotel grounds unless you want to. Let your kids know you’re headed to Mexico for a fun Christmas gift for teens that will light up their eyes. And in the end, you can still get a picture in front of a big tree of poinsettias or a light-adorned palm tree.
11. Palm Beach, Florida
Palm Beach offers a different kind of luxury Christmas trip for families: sandcastle tree sculptures, palm trees wrapped in lights and some of the best window displays in the state. Worth Avenue has upscale shopping but also a family-friendly holiday event calendar. The beaches are warm, the water is calm and the atmosphere feels resort-like without being overly built up.
12. Costa Rica
Costa Rica gives families beaches and rainforests in the same trip, but Christmas adds a layer of celebration. Towns decorate with parades, concerts and traditional tamales. In San José, you might even catch the Tope Nacional de Caballos, a giant horse parade right after Christmas.
Families who love wildlife, warm water and outdoor adventures find it hard to beat. Need an add-on Christmas gift for dads? Private surf lessons or deep-sea fishing are a great choice.
13. South Tyrol, Italy
Soak up views of the Dolomites, tucked between fairytale towns that make a luxury Christmas vacation for families feel effortless. You get Alpine villages, Italian food and Christmas markets all in one place. Santa shows up, horse-drawn carriages clip down the streets and the markets feel like they were built for wandering. The whole area is also an easy backdrop for a romantic Christmas date idea.
14. London, United Kingdom
While it won’t be a particularly white holiday, you can count on some truly festive ambiance around the city with a luxury Christmas vacation for families in London.
Streets like Regent and Oxford are covered in lights, ice rinks pop up across the city and afternoons are perfect for theatre or museum visits. A mince-meat pie or a sweet Colin the Caterpillar sounds like the perfect treat on a chilly day. Families love being able to cross a few of those bucket list items off the list too, like a Harry Potter Studio Tour, a side trip to Harrods, a little Hyde Park Winter Wonderland or even just some cozy pub time when the rain rolls in.
15. St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
St. Croix is ideal for families who want warmth and luxury without leaving the U.S. You’ll still find popular Christmas activities for kids like pictures with Santa, face painting and maybe even some Christmas lights that are displayed on boats instead of houses. Take advantage of soft sand, snorkeling and sunbathing while you’re there.
16. Switzerland
From Basel to Zurich or deep in the Swiss Alps, you can definitely enjoy luxury Christmas vacations for families in Switzerland. If there’s one thing the Swiss are known for, it’s luxury and these towns have world-class dining, skiing, shopping and Christmas markets. Christmas lights are everywhere, chocolate shops lean into the season and mountain towns feel like snow globes. Kids can enjoy sledding, indoor pools, Christmas trains and fondue dinners that feel like a treat.
Affordable Christmas Vacations for Families
A good Christmas trip doesn’t need a luxury price tag. These spots give families room to explore without stretching their budget — perfect for people searching for Christmas vacations for families on a budget, affordable Christmas vacations for families, and cheap all-inclusive family Christmas vacation packages.
17. Yosemite National Park, California
There’s truly never a bad time to visit Yosemite and it's especially picturesque at Christmas time. Make it a road trip or pack up the RV and enjoy the many festive activities. You can choose to camp or rent a cabin nearby. Take a sleigh ride through Curry’s village and lace up your skates or fasten your ski boots and enjoy some cold-weather fun.
18. Gruene, Texas
Just a few hours outside of Austin, you’ll find a surprisingly fun and affordable Christmas vacation for families. The city of Gruene is charming with a small-town vibe. Pose for pictures with Cowboy Kringle, then cheer as loud as you can for the Pony Express Ride before settling in at the Gruene Dance Hall, the oldest dance hall around, for hour after hour of holiday spirit.
19. San Antonio, Texas
Another unsuspecting but festive location for affordable Christmas vacations for families is San Antonio, Texas. The charming river walk is always a sight to see, but around the holidays, it is adorned with tons of Mexican lanterns.
Enjoy the food and ambiance by foot or by boat — and if you’re traveling with children, there are plenty of things to do in San Antonio with kids that make it a great family destination. Wondering where is hot and cheap over Christmas? Texas enjoys some pretty mild winters, especially in Southern cities like San Antonio. Temps vary but can range from around 70 to 85°F.
20. Pella, Iowa
While Iowa might not be high on your list for Christmas vacations for families, this charming town in the middle of the state certainly should be. Pella is actually known for their strong Dutch culture and tulip festival in the Spring, but you can also enjoy affordable family vacations here. You’ll see Sinterklaas arrive on a wooden boat during the parade and there will be plenty of creamy Gouda cheese and Dutch pastries to enjoy.
21. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
This adorable town in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee is bursting with German charm and is perfect for affordable Christmas vacations for families. The winter schedule around town is loaded with festive events like a light parade or Enchanted Christmas Festival. Not to mention families can still explore the more traditional side of the Great Smoky Mountains, visiting craft shops or taking in views from the aerial tramway.
22. Whitefish, Montana
The Wild West has a special beauty during all four seasons, but there’s something beautiful about Christmas vacations for families here in the wintertime. And because Whitefish is a quieter alternative to bigger ski resorts, it's also a great budget pick.
Families love the relaxed pace, local cafés, snowshoe trails and easy access to Glacier National Park’s winter programs. It’s a classic “small town with big scenery” trip.
23. Fredericksburg, Texas
With several other Southern or Southwestern Texas towns on the list, it’s no surprise that you can have a memorable and affordable Christmas vacation for families in Fredericksburg.
This remarkably German town in the Lone Star State is brimming with holiday cheer, like a 26-foot wooden Christmas pyramid, an outdoor ice rink and holiday markets. It’s also wine country for the adults, with mild temperatures and plenty of budget-friendly inns.
Unique Christmas Vacations for Families
Some families want a destination that feels a little different — less postcard-perfect and more “we’d never forget this.” These places give you a story, a tradition or an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
24. Park City, Utah
This charming ski town is less than an hour from the Salt Lake City airport, making it a convenient and fun Christmas vacation for families. December brings tons of fresh powder and world-class skiing, along with great food and a lovely little town to explore.
25. Middleburg, Virginia
While this destination might not ordinarily be on your list, it’s a great spot for unique Christmas vacations for families. Middleburg feels like stepping into a Christmas card. Watch the horse-and-hound parade trot down Main Street, followed by their pack of hounds or shop for European trinkets in an antique market. Kids love the mini-horse “meet and greet” at the Salamander Resort.
26. Palm Springs, California
This desert town offers something different to the traditional festive scene, making it a great spot for unique Christmas vacations for families. Palm Springs is for families who want December warmth but also want design, color and personality.
The Festival of Lights Parade, mid-century neighborhoods and mountain tram rides create a holiday that feels totally different. Leave your parka at home because the average temperature is in the 70s.
27. Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle
This massive Italian Renaissance-style hotel was built in the 1920s and is the perfect spot for unique Christmas vacations for families today. This grand, palatial spot decks its halls impeccably each year, and the front desk staff are there to go above and beyond.
Enjoy the wild, wacky and artsy vibes in downtown Seattle, then come back for a dip in the pool under the glass solarium, where the water stays a balmy 87 degrees.
28. Helsinki, Finland
The forecast may be cold and gray, but that’s no reason not to plan a unique Christmas vacation for families to Helsinki. Their Christmas market is world-famous, full of homemade goodies and trinkets. If you’ve never been, you’ll be amazed and delighted by the culinary scene, plus few things are cozier or more invigorating in the cool temps than a sauna and cold plunge experience.
29. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Remote and rugged, the Faroe Islands are perfect for families who want something unforgettable. December brings dramatic cliffs, winter hikes and a small “Christmas City” built by locals. While it might be a bit remote, you can still find holiday cheer as the locals decorate the town with lights and festive touches. You can camp, but there’s also a Hilton Garden Hotel that welcomes you.
30. Cusco, Peru
December is summertime in Peru, which means warm days and unique Christmas vacations for families. Cusco blends Andean traditions with classic Christmas symbols, and families can explore ruins (you know the likes of Machu Picchu), nature and markets in the same trip.
31. Lapland, Finland
Embrace the white Christmas all the way in Lapland, Finland. The far north offers adventure lovers some pretty unique Christmas vacations for families, with some incredibly magical experiences.
One such unmissable experience has to be camping out in a glass-covered igloo hut as you sleep under the Northern Lights. You can also enjoy dog sledding and snowshoeing, then warm up in a wood-fired sauna. Visit Santa Claus’ hometown of Rovaniemi, Finland, where you can visit Santa Claus village. If you want a once-in-a-lifetime Christmas, this is it.
No matter where you go, the best part of a Christmas trip is how everything finally slows down. These Christmas vacations for families help you hold onto that feeling a little longer — the quiet mornings, the new traditions, the rare chance to be in the same place without distractions. Pick a spot that feels right for your family and build from there.
And remember, a great holiday trip can also double as a last-minute Christmas gift idea; the world is your oyster. From tropical beaches to charming snow-covered towns or luxurious trips around the world, there are so many incredible ways to celebrate together.
Get your elf on the shelf to announce the whole thing with one of its mischievous escapades. Is he ice fishing? Skiing? Baking up Christmas treats? Take your kids on a real-life adventure, inspired by his Christmas mischief.
For even more fun Christmas ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
